Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Stress, and Quality of Life in Adulthood

The symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are linked to dysfunction in academic, occupational, interpersonal, and other domains for both children and adults (see review in Whalen, Jamner, Henker, Delfino, & Lozano, 2002). The current study examines the association between ADHD symptoms and quality of life (QOL) and perceived stress in a community sample of adults. Data were obtained largely through an internet survey conducted as part of a larger medical trial utilizing a representative community sample, and were analyzed through a series of hierarchical multiple regressions employing ADHD symptom clusters, demographic, and anxiety and depression scale variables as predictors. The hypotheses that ADHD symptoms positively predict perceived stress and negatively predict QOL were generally supported, with inattention and sluggish cognitive tempo serving as the strongest ADHD-related predictors for both QOL and perceived stress.